If you like epic fantasy books with vivid worlds and complex characters, “Empire of Blood and Darkness” by Travis Yardley is worth checking out. It is book one in the series and from now until July 11, it is available for free for Amazon Kindle Unlimited members.

Travis Yardley is an author who at the age of fifteen, already knew he wanted to write books. He spent his early life both in Texas and Oklahoma and started the earliest draft of his first book before finishing high school. He has been at multiple book signings at Oklahoma’s largest independent book store, Full Circle Bookstore. His e-book, “Empire of Blood and Darkness,” is currently free until July 11 for all Amazon Kindle Unlimited members. He sells signed copies for US mailing on Etsy at yardleybooks. In “Empire of Blood and Darkness,” Alexander Kai and his friends are dragged into a war when their neighboring Kingdom of Xythuu invades their home country. This story is the first book in a series that details their struggles as they fight back for their country. It is also available through Best of Books. (Travis Yardley, 2023)

“Empire of Blood and Darkness” – Alexander Kai and his close-knit group of friends begin their Eltheneaen apprenticeships with a thirst to learn the skills needed for the life of a soldier, such as wielding magic, Essence, and their weapons of choice. However, a surprise attack from the neighboring Kingdom of Xythuu steals the futures they had hoped for—as well as the hometown and family they all hold dear. This group of inexperienced apprentices must trek across their country to seek aid, learning to rely on each other’s skills and companionship as tragedy after tragedy befalls them. As the perilous journey unfolds along with the horrors of war, Alexander begins to wonder if he will ever see his home of Jylinae again. Is there any hope left of resisting Xythuu?